The Russian Takeover of Belarus

Abstract

Russia now controls the defense and security policy of Belarus, has established military bases, and runs key defense installations. The two countries have signed a Union Agreement, opening up for the complete merger of the two countries economies. So far, only security and defense cooperation has yielded concrete results. This means that Russia once more plays a key role in regional security in Eastern Europe. The Belarusian president has actively supported this process. In return, Russia has subsidized the Belarusian economy, however President Vladimir Putin is unwilling to continue this policy. Financial assistance is now coupled with stringent demands for economic reforms. These demands undermine the Belarusian president’s power base while at the same time consolidating Russian control.